UNDIP, Semarang (August 23, 2025) – Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP) officially sent off its Patriot Expedition teams, who will carry out community service, research, and exploration missions in transmigration areas across Indonesia. The ceremony took place at Widya Puraya Field, Tembalang Campus, led by Rector Prof. Dr. Suharnomo, S.E., M.Si., alongside the university’s leadership.
A total of 285 participants, comprising students, alumni, and faculty members from various faculties, participated in the program. They will conduct field research, community education, regional development initiatives, and promote national values and patriotism.
The Patriot Expedition is a strategic program of the Ministry of Transmigration, which deploys young researchers to transmigration regions to study resources, identify key commodities, and develop strategic development plans. To implement the initiative, the ministry has partnered with seven of Indonesia’s top universities, including UNDIP.
In his remarks, UNDIP Rector Prof. Suharnomo said the program not only represents the implementation of the Tri Dharma of Higher Education — education, research, and community service — but also aims to instill patriotism among the younger generation.
Prof. Suharnomo reminded participants to set the right intention for joining the expedition: to bring tangible benefits to society.
“You are the chosen ones representing UNDIP. Your presence is expected to bring meaningful contributions to the communities you serve,” he said.
“Always respect local culture and wisdom wherever you are assigned. Remember the saying: ‘Where the earth is trodden, there the sky is upheld.’ Respect local traditions. Be agents of inspiration. Fill public spaces with positive contributions that build optimism for the nation,” Suharnomo added.
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wiwandari Handayani, S.T., M.T., MPS, professor of urban and regional planning and coordinator of the Patriot Expedition at UNDIP, said participants will serve for four months after receiving orientation from the Ministry of Transmigration.
“These young changemakers and researchers will carry out studies producing development plans and identifying local resources. The goal is for transmigration sites not only to resettle people but also to evolve into centers of economic growth,” said Prof. Wiwik, as she often addressed.
Over the course of four months, the expedition will cover 13 provinces, 35 districts, and 57 transmigration areas. Activities include resource mapping, mentoring small businesses, training in appropriate technology, environmental education, and more.
The program is expected to strengthen collaboration among universities, local governments, communities, and residents while showcasing untapped regional potential.
The Universitas Diponegoro’s Patriot Expedition is organized by the university’s Institute for Research and Community Service (LPPM) in partnership with the Ministry of Transmigration. The expedition runs from August 26–31, 2025, to December 9, 2025. (Public Communication/ UNDIP/ Utami, ed. Nurul)